These classic M&M cookies are a beloved treat that never goes out of style, perfect for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. With their soft and chewy texture, vibrant bursts of color, and rich chocolate flavor, they’re as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Plus, they’re simple to make, making them a favorite for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients Breakdown
The core ingredients in these cookies are what give them their irresistible texture and flavor. Softened butter is creamed with granulated and light brown sugars to create a rich, buttery base. The granulated sugar contributes sweetness, while the brown sugar adds a subtle molasses note and enhances chewiness.
Vanilla extract and a pinch of salt work together to balance and deepen the flavors, ensuring every bite is as satisfying as the last. The M&M candies are, of course, the stars of the show, providing chocolatey goodness and a vibrant, playful touch. For a twist, you can swap out M&Ms for peanut butter candies, mini chocolate chips, or a mix of both to suit your preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your baking sheets. Lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients. This step is crucial for creating a uniform dough.
Creaming the butter and sugars is where the magic begins. Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air, giving the cookies their soft texture.
Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, which enhances the flavor and aroma of the cookies. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Overworking the dough can result in dense cookies, so mix just until the flour disappears.
Gently fold in the M&Ms, reserving a handful for decorating the tops of the cookies. This step ensures the candies are evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking them.
Shaping and Baking the Cookies
Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized portions and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each to allow for spreading. Press a few additional M&Ms onto the tops of each dough ball for a colorful, bakery-style appearance.
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain slightly soft. This ensures the cookies have a chewy texture. Let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Tips
Use room-temperature butter for easier creaming and a smoother dough.
If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 20 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
For an extra colorful finish, press a few M&Ms onto the cookies immediately after removing them from the oven.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a timeless treat. For parties or gatherings, include them on a dessert platter alongside brownies, fudge, or cupcakes for a colorful spread. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s impossible to resist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to store these cookies to keep them fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Add a slice of bread to the container to keep them soft.
Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?
Absolutely! Adjust the baking time slightly depending on the size of the cookies.
How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven?
Make sure your butter isn’t too soft, and chill the dough briefly if needed.
Classic M&M cookies are the perfect combination of fun and flavor, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a party, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them at home, they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Customize the colors for holidays or special events, and share the joy of these delightful cookies with loved ones!
Ingredients
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups (400g) M&M candies (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup and nonstick baking.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated and light brown sugars. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be mindful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies less tender.
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in 2 cups of M&M candies, reserving a handful to decorate the tops of the cookies.
Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized portions and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Press a few additional M&Ms onto the top of each cookie dough ball to ensure they look colorful and inviting after baking.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. The centers will appear slightly soft but will firm up as the cookies cool.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and savor these vibrant, chewy cookies filled with bursts of chocolatey M&M goodness!
Classic M&M Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup 226g unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup 150g granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup 150g packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups 280g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups 400g M&M candies (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup and nonstick baking.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated and light brown sugars. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be mindful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies less tender.
- Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in 2 cups of M&M candies, reserving a handful to decorate the tops of the cookies.
- Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized portions and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Press a few additional M&Ms onto the top of each cookie dough ball to ensure they look colorful and inviting after baking.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. The centers will appear slightly soft but will firm up as the cookies cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and savor these vibrant, chewy cookies filled with bursts of chocolatey M&M goodness!
